Student Health Policy Fellowship

Grassroots advocacy has been re-energized in the past year, as concerned citizens have made their voices heard to their elected representatives on a wide range of issues from the Affordable Care Act to gun control. More than ever, it’s crucial for policymakers to hear from PA students on the issues that matter most to them.

The next application cycle will open on May 6 and close on July 12.

Objectives

The SHPF is designed to enhance students’ understanding of the political process and health policy. The ultimate goal is to inspire and prepare fellows for lifelong grassroots advocacy, both in Washington and at home, that promotes the PA profession as an integral part of the health care system.

This program starts with a three-day intensive workshop in Washington, DC, where fellows will learn about advocacy and policymaking processes, interact with fellow leaders, and meet with their representatives and staff on Capitol Hill. By the end of the fellowship, participants will have developed skills in three key areas:

Advocacy

Fellows will learn how the legislative process works at the federal level and how to become effective advocates for PA education and the PA profession.

Leadership

Fellows will build and refine the skills necessary to organize and lead others in both advancing health policy priorities and serving as an advocate for the PA profession at the local, state, and national levels.

PAs and the Health Care Environment

Fellows will develop an appreciation for grassroots advocacy in advancing the goals of PA education and practice in communities.

Project

In addition to the three-day meeting in Washington, DC, the fellowship requires that each participant complete an advocacy project under the guidance of a program faculty mentor by September 2019 and agree to participate in periodic follow-up surveys from PAEA. Advocacy projects should be creative and demonstrate a positive impact on the PA profession, local or state community, or PA programs. Examples of past projects include:

Organizing a lobby day at the state capitol

Hosting a member of Congress at your PA program

Student advocacy presentations at PA state association meetings

PA awareness campaigns with community health centers

Students who are accepted will receive guidelines on the development of a project proposal during the fellowship experience in Washington, DC.

Questions?

About PAEA®

The Physician Assistant Education Association (PAEA) is the only national organization representing PA educational programs. PAEA works to ensure quality PA education through the development and distribution of educational services and products specifically geared toward meeting the emerging needs of PA programs, the PA profession, and the health care industry.